Three quick points to make about the 2013 Perfect Game Spring Top Showcase before getting to the Top Prospect list, especially for those who do not live in the Upper Midwest.

• The weather in the Upper Midwest has been perhaps the most difficult in memory in the context of playing spring baseball. There were players at the event whom we’re sure have not played any meaningful baseball outside this spring, especially those from Minnesota, which is still covered in snow. Even the Iowa based players, which make up the majority of the showcase participants, have been severely limited. If one is used to the cold, the conditions were actually pretty playable in Cedar Rapids the whole weekend once the ice was cleared from the field Saturday morning.

• As is always the case, the Top Prospect rankings reflect what went on at this particular event and are not taken to rank the players on an overall basis.

• This writer/scout has been to every Spring Top Showcase since the event started. This was the best group of overall talent assembled despite the weather as detailed above. There were numerous players with professional futures, some young standouts who will play a high level of college baseball and a deep mid-range of players who have a bright college future at some level.

Top Prospects
RHP Derek Burkamper(2013, Muscatine (IA) HS): Burkamper gave notice to how much he has improved at the Pitcher/Catcher Indoor Showcase in February and reports on him from the Iowa Spring League have been encouraging as well. He was simply outstanding on Sunday, throwing in the 89-92 mph range from a steep downhill angle and a smooth, repeatable delivery. Burkamper’s 76-78 mph curveball was hard and tight, and while he could have thrown more changeups, that pitch also flashed good quality. It was at least a solid third round type performance and perhaps better.

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